Bob Graham is the author-illustrator of many award-winning books for children, including How to Heal a Broken Wing, and April and Esme, Tooth Fairies. He lives in Australia.
It is the lovely communality of the story--an ever-presence that is
elegantly, softly presented--that will grab young readers, simply
because the school bus is just so cool. It's got birds nesting in
the engine block, a Foosball table, music, all sorts of things
going on and the usual joyful noise of people up to whatever it is
they enjoy being up to. Aiding the mood of merriment are Graham's
illustrations, with their sinewy black line work, delicate,
peaches-and-cream colors and loving depiction of all kinds of
people. The destination sign on the bus reads "Heaven," and just
so, a little piece here on Earth.
--Kirkus Reviews (starred review) In a story where every turn is
possible, if improbable, Graham makes readers believe. High hopes
and busy, vibrant artwork that mixes metaphor with true grit will
entice children--and parents--into further rereadings.
--Booklist (starred review) Graham's ink-and-watercolor scenes
capture the small details of a struggling urban neighborhood eager
for a sign of hope. And he effortlessly depicts a slice of city
life, in which people of various religions, races, ages, and
occupations pull together as one. As Stella shifts from meek to
bold, and the bus transforms into a rainbow of color and activity,
Graham's artwork grows brighter, too, highlighting the story's
transformative message.
--Publishers Weekly Ink and watercolor cartoon illustrations
reinforce the earnest story's message of unity and hope, capturing
the welcoming heart and spirit of Stella's urban neighborhood.
--School Library Journal Graham's inviting ink and watercolor
illustrations vary perspectives dynamically. Close-up, detailed
panels celebrate difference, while expansive single- and
double-page views pull back to place this little urban utopia in a
bleak industrial landscape.
--The Horn Book If you've ever wanted to teach your children about
the importance of community, and what can be accomplished with a
little determination and a lot of creativity, this one's for
you.
--Huffington Post Parents blog
It is the lovely communality of the story--an ever-presence that is
elegantly, softly presented--that will grab young readers, simply
because the school bus is just so cool. It's got birds nesting in
the engine block, a Foosball table, music, all sorts of things
going on and the usual joyful noise of people up to whatever it is
they enjoy being up to. Aiding the mood of merriment are Graham's
illustrations, with their sinewy black line work, delicate,
peaches-and-cream colors and loving depiction of all kinds of
people. The destination sign on the bus reads "Heaven," and just
so, a little piece here on Earth.
--Kirkus Reviews (starred review)
In a story where every turn is possible, if improbable, Graham
makes readers believe. High hopes and busy, vibrant artwork that
mixes metaphor with true grit will entice children--and
parents--into further rereadings.
--Booklist (starred review) Graham's ink-and-watercolor scenes
capture the small details of a struggling urban neighborhood eager
for a sign of hope. And he effortlessly depicts a slice of city
life, in which people of various religions, races, ages, and
occupations pull together as one. As Stella shifts from meek to
bold, and the bus transforms into a rainbow of color and activity,
Graham's artwork grows brighter, too, highlighting the story's
transformative message.
--Publishers Weekly Ink and watercolor cartoon illustrations
reinforce the earnest story's message of unity and hope, capturing
the welcoming heart and spirit of Stella's urban neighborhood.
--School Library Journal Graham's inviting ink and watercolor
illustrations vary perspectives dynamically. Close-up, detailed
panels celebrate difference, while expansive single- and
double-page views pull back to place this little urban utopia in a
bleak industrial landscape.
--The Horn Book If you've ever wanted to teach your children about
the importance of community, and what can be accomplished with a
little determination and a lot of creativity, this one's for
you.
--Huffington Post Parents blog
|
Ask a Question About this Product More... |
|
